"I Can't Wear That Again. I Already Wore It To_____." The Power of the Re-Wear."

Here is is….The dress. Don’t be surprised if you see me in it again!

A common statement I hear from women is, “I can’t wear that again, I already wore it to___" or “I already wore it with those people.” This has me thinking.

So what?!

There are so many special events happening, especially during the holidays. There are office parties, house parties and the actual holiday itself. What do you wear to those events? I’m not talking about the clothes we wear on a daily basis. I’m talking about all the events that require some type of attire that is “a little dressier or festive.” These items are clothes we may only get to wear a handful of times per year.

We recently hosted a party, in our home, and I wore an Alice and Olivia dress that I purchased at the end of last season. I finally had an occasion to wear it! It was perfect. I was comfortable, looked chic and, most importantly, felt great. A few weeks later, I had another event and I was trying to decide what to wear. I enjoyed my Alice and Olivia dress so much I decided to wear it again.

You know I love clothing and enjoy dressing up. I love to get use out of the clothing I own. I love to feel good in what I’m wearing and I want my clients to feel the same way. What if I am with people who had seen this dress prior? Why wasn’t I compelled to wear something different? I had other choices and I have to admit, it’s not like I didn’t stop to think about it. In fact, with so many sales happening at this time of year it was also tempting to look for something “new.” Yet, at the same time, I am so overwhelmed by all of the “bargains” that they have become a turn off. I don’t want to purchase anything…even if it’s the “deal of the century.”

How did I get here?

While I was thinking about the upcoming events, I began to ask myself a few questions. I think they are important things to think about.

This was pretty cool!

With Stacey Bendet-CEO and Creative Director of Alice and Olivia!

Q: If I were at an event and I saw someone in a “re-wear,” what would I think?

A: I honestly wouldn’t think anything of it. What would you think? Would you even think twice about it? I asked a few people this question and they had the same reply!

Q: Why would I only wear want to wear my new dress once? A: I purchased this dress because I loved it. I enjoyed wearing it and I truly wanted to wear it again.

Q: Would I care if someone has seen me in it? A: It was empowering to answer “no.”

Finally, I want to be able to pass this idea on to my to my clients. I know most of us think the same way about our clothing options for these special events. We tell ourselves…“I can’t wear that again,” but I’m training myself to question it. Why do we put that pressure on ourselves? each other? and our wallets? This week I am hosting a holiday party for my husbands office. When I came home tonight he said the ladies in the office were chatting about what they were wearing. He couldn’t believe the topic was “Is it ok to wear something I’ve already worn?!” I hope they get to read this before Thursday…I think it’s a great idea to “re-wear!”

The items we purchase for occasions like the holidays, are a little more special. We invest in them and we don’t get to wear them often. I decided this holiday season if I feel good in something, and I love it, I’m going to get the use out of it!

Please let me know if you decide to “re-wear” an outfit. I hope you do!

Fashionably yours,

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10 Things I Learned From Cleaning Out My Closet.

Yes, it’s true. It has taken me a month to go through my closet. I’m not a big proponent of cleaning out a closet in one day. I know that works for many people, however, it doesn’t work for me. It’s an overwhelming task even if you aren’t a clothes collector. I like to take section by section and toss what is worn or damaged. I like to take time to mull over what is left. Today I’m not going to go through a closet cleanse with you…today I want to talk to you about what I learned over the past month!

10 Things I learned...

Don’t take other peoples “hand me downs” if you don’t think you’ll wear them.

My mother-in-law has unbelievable taste! I love going to visit her and we inevitably wind up cleaning her closets! (Right, Mimi?) She will often pass things along to me and most of them I wear and love. Some things, I have never worn and feel terrible that I haven’t. I know when I give someone something from my closet I hope they will get use out of it. I think we all want our items to be worn and appreciated. Before you take someone’s “hand-me-downs,” ask yourself if you will use it. If you don’t think you will, let the donor pass it along to someone who will get wear out of it.

Don’t just assume people want your “hand me downs.”

Sometimes I think passing down my “in good condition, almost like new” clothing is such a nice thing to do. However, this may just overwhelm people and put them into a closet overload. Ask them first…is this something they really think they could use?

Learn from your mistakes.

When you decide to toss or donate an item, ask yourself why you are you letting that particular item go? If you made a mistake and put money towards something that you aren’t wearing, you don’t want to make that mistake again! Download my "Stylist In Your Pocket."
Carry it in your wallet and ask yourself the 10 questions before you purchase another item of clothing. I still keep this in my wallet and it helps!

Don’t let your closet get out of hand.

If you go through your wardrobe often, your closet will never get out of hand. Keep on top of it and take a few minutes to go through sections to help you from becoming overwhelmed. Start with an easy section, like bathing suits or pj’s, to help keep you motivated.

If you haven’t worn something in over a year it really might be time to let it go.

There are certain things I can’t let go of and these aren’t the things I’m talking about. I’m talking about items that you pass over time and time again. If you pass by an item without giving it a second glance and you continue to choose something else to wear, it may just be time to let that item go.

Life is too short for uncomfortable shoes.

Period. They hurt when you wear them so you inevitably pass on wearing the outfit that goes with them. Don’t hang onto uncomfortable shoes. Find a replacement.

Stay on top of caring for your shoes.

Think of caring for your shoes like brushing your hair. Take the time to polish and resole/reheel them. Leaving the house with tired looking shoes is like leaving the house without combing your hair.

Don’t save “clothes that are too tight” or “clothes that are too big.”

Clothes that are too big or too loose don’t serve a purpose. They only take up space in your closet and more importantly, in your head.

Keep a running list of what you “need” and what you “want” because there is a difference!

Filling in the “needs” should trump filling in the “wants” especially if you’re working on a tight budget.

Sometimes altering an item isn’t the answer.

I have purchased things in the past that needed too many alterations. I never wore the item once it was altered because it still didn’t fit well. Finding a good tailor is key. He/She will tell you if an item can or can’t be tailored to your liking. I learned this the hard way. Not everything can be altered. If something is too large or too snug it is probably a good idea to pass on it.

There is such a feeling of accomplishment to cleaning out our closets. I only recently thought about why I was letting things go. It has saved me from making similar mistakes and therefore money. I hope it does the same for you! I’d love to hear what are some of the reasons why you’ve donated clothes!

Fashionably yours,

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10 Ways To Look Slimmer Instantly!

I never thought I'd be writing a post about how to look slimmer. However, no one has asked me how to look bigger (yet). During this time of life I am not at my most confident about my body or weight. I would like to look slim too. So, please don’t take offense. I hear women asking all the time…”does this make me look big? Can I wear this? Does it add weight to my frame?”

Before I meet with any new client I have them fill out an extensive questionnaire. I like to get to know someone before our first meeting so we can dig right in once we are together. One of the most important things I like to understand is what parts of the body my clients like to accentuate and which ones they would rather minimize. For example, I will not try to convince a client that they should wear sleeveless if they would rather minimize their arms. I may tell them that I think their arms look great because I really do think they look great. However, I know when I’m not secure about wearing something I would rather not feel self conscious.

Not that I don't think you look beautiful the way you are...but because you asked.

On to the tips!!

Most of these tips work on creating an illusion of length and height. Whenever your eye is drawn vertically the look is more slimming.

Wear a v-neck not a crew neck.

A v-neck tee will draw your eye up and down and create length. A crew neck top, although great for layering, will stop the eye around the neck and shoulders. This isn’t to say these aren’t flattering necklines at all. Given the choice, a v-neck will create more length rather than width.

Wear Dark Wash instead of Light Wash Denim.

A dark wash denim will also elongate by drawing your eye vertically. A lighter wash, especially one with more fading and/or whisker details, will halt your eyes at your hips and thighs. This denim example is the exact same jean in two different washes. Quite a difference, don’t you think?

Wear heels vs flats.

Any time you add a little bit of height to your look you create a longer leaner look. You don’t have to wear pumps. Try a wedge or block heel for comfort and still create some added height.

Wear one color head to toe.

Wearing a monotone look is the oldest trick in the book. Again, you are creating a long and lean look and this works especially well with darker colors. More advanced monotone looks come together when you mix variations in the color tone. I would suggest sticking with a darker version…black and navy are a great place to start.

Wear Long Pendant Necklaces Vs Short.

Creating a vertical line can be done with necklaces too. They come in all lengths. Depending on your height you may not want to choose the longest one you can find. Keep in mind creating the illusion of an upright line is key.

Wear a Duster, even if you’re petite.

A duster is a cardigan that falls anywhere from right below the knee to your ankle. Even on petites this can be a flattering style if done right. We are creating a longer silhouette with the length.

Wear nude shoes when wearing short skirts.

Wearing a nude shoe with shorter skirts and dresses is a great tip in elongating. By opting for a color close to your skin tone your eye doesn’t stop and break at the look of a color against your skin. This look should only be worn with a bare leg!

Wear a structured blazer.

A blazer that has more shape will flatter your figure as opposed to a boxy version that will look like you are trying to cover up.

Find a well fitting bra and panty.

One of the most overlooked areas in a women’s wardrobe is undergarments. A well fitting bra will literally make the most important difference in the way an outfit falls. Don’t skimp on this important detail. I personally love the “vanishing back” from Soma Intimates.

Volume and Proportion.

Remember to balance your outfit. Wearing two oversized pieces together will add weight. If you want to wear something oversized always add a slimmer piece to balance out your outfit. For example, try an oversized sweater with a faux leather legging. Try a wide leg pant with a slimmer turtleneck.

I hope you enjoyed the tips and would love to hear if you try any of them. Interested in any of these items? They are linked in this catalog…10 Ways To Look Slimmer Instantly

Fashionably yours,

A little heads up…Some of my suggestions may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something from one of those links you won’t pay a penny more but I may earn a small commission, which helps keep the lights on! Thank you!

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How To Look Great When You're Running Late!

Ever have one of those days when you just didn’t have time to plan your outfit or you just weren’t comfortable in the outfit you planned to wear? Isn’t it the worst feeling when you start running late because you can’t decide what to wear because nothing feels right or you’re just not comfortable in what you’re putting on?

I’m much better at planning outfits now. I had this horrible period of time when I would have a countdown of the hours and minutes to an event without an outfit plan. I knew I was in trouble if I was showering for the event and still didn’t know what to wear. I would then start thinking about it while I was drying my hair. Still no outfit. Ok…I’ll come up with it while I’m doing my makeup. The clothes start flying off the hangers and nothing feels right. Then my husband starts with “we are going to be late” Then it becomes “we are late!” Does this sound familiar?

Thankfully this hasn’t happened in a while because I’m much better at planning. However, life isn’t perfect, I’m not always organized. Sometimes I am organized, however, the outfit doesn’t fit as well as it did the last time I wore it.

I want to give you some of my tried and true tips on how to choose an outfit when you didn’t have one planned, or you’re “just not feeling it” with the outfit you set aside.

Stop! Don’t Try To Style Something You Haven’t Worn Before!

Just purchase a really unique pair of pumps? Don’t try to style them right before you are heading out the door.

I am always excited to wear something new. However, if you don’t have the perfect items to go with those new shoes, new blazer or new blouse this is not the time to try to pair them up! Figure out the outfit when you have the time and then wear it. You will waste a lot of energy and time trying to make an outfit work by trying to match up something new for the first time. You’ll also run the risk of not really liking the way it looked once you get back home.

Have a select group of outfits that are “go to’s”

There are many times we wear an outfit and love the way it looks. Snap a pix of these outfits and keep them in your phone or in your closet and use those outfits as “go to’s.” You may feel like you’ve worn this outfit before, however, I would choose comfort and confidence in my outfit over arriving late.

Rather than having to search your phone for the photos or look through pictures hanging in your closet, you might want to consider my “virtual closet” app. It is so amazing. It saves time and money! No more repeat purchases or struggling with “what do I wear with this?” Your wardrobe and outfit combinations are right at your fingertips in an app on your phone. Check out Ways to Work With Me to see how it all works!

Classic Audrey Hepburn. This is a classic “go to” look especially if you are in a rush!

Thank you for the photo pixaby.

Wear all black.

When all else fails, wear black. Pair your black turtleneck and black trousers with your favorite pumps or flats. You can keep the shoes simple or wear them as an accent piece. Too warm for a turtleneck? Try a sleeveless blouse and pencil skirt. You’ll look chic AND COMPLETE!

Wear a dress or jumpsuit.

A dress or jumpsuit is such an easy “one and done” look. You only have to add a necklace or earring and the shoe and voila, you’re ready to go!

The most important thing to remember is to keep it simple. If you don’t have the time to plan an outfit from head to toe then I would suggest sticking with what you know! You are better off arriving on time and feeling confident with what you have on.

I hope these tips are helpful to you. If you would like to chat about how I can help you put together some “go to’s” let’s chat. I’d love to offer a free 30 minute consult. Email me at theo@chacha-olivia.com and we can set up a time.

Fashionably yours,

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Have You Ever Experienced A Fashion Regret? 10 Tips For Never Regretting a Fashion Purchase Ever Again.

When I buy clothes, I want to make good investments. I want the clothes to be timeless in style, to last a long time, and to spend more time on me than on the hanger. I have learned how to do this well the hard way. There isn’t anything worse than making a purchase, then regretting it and feeling like I just wasted hard earned money.

I've fallen into several traps over the years. I bought outfits for “that event” that I thought I might attend. I've purchased things on vacation I didn't really need. I have also been drawn in by designer names at times. These kind of heat-of-the-moment purchases are what leads to fashion regrets.  

Clients often tell me they regret buying heels that are too high. They may look great, but being able to walk in them comfortably is important. Online ordering is another pitfall. Have you ever ordered something and been surprised by how different it looked in person? This is also similar to not trying things on in the store while shopping. There’s no way to know if it will fit well, or suit us, until we get home. Add a sale to the mix and you’ve got yourself a minefield of bad ideas.

So how do we avoid these regrets? How do we go shopping and come back with good investments?

Here are some things I like to think about before making a fashion purchase...be sure to download my free “stylist in your pocket guide" below. I use it myself and it’s a huge help.

Fit.

There have been many times in the past when I have purchased an item of clothing, only to realize it doesn't fit properly. If you're buying clothes that need countless alterations, you may never be satisfied with the final product. Be sure to try things on to save you the hassle of a return. If you are between two sizes it may be best to not purchase at all and pass on items that need more than a quick hem.

Comfort.

When I’m deciding what to wear for the day, I often pass on wearing an outfit that is uncomfortable. Is the jacket too snug in the shoulders making it difficult to drive? Can I walk more than 10 steps without holding onto my husband? It’s important to make sure your purchase is comfortable. Wear shoes around the department store and don’t just walk on carpeted areas, walk on hard floors too. Move around in an item. Sit, cross your legs, bend squat do whatever you do on a daily basis to be sure the item you are contemplating is comfy. If there is any doubt, leave it at the store!

MY style.

Many of my clients have told me that they have made purchases based on styles they admire on other women, rather than styles they know and love. Experimenting is all well and good, but when it comes to making a commitment to a new look, experiment with one item at a time. Get to know your own style first and think about if you would really wear this new look.

Does it fit my lifestyle?

The early morning school run, cleaning the house, sitting at a desk all afternoon; are your clothes built for this? If you’re not likely to wear your pearls and Chanel to the grocery store, it may be best to stick to some basic staples. On the other hand, if you’re always out on the town or at dinner parties, do you really need another pair of jeans?

Can I afford it?

Working out if you can afford something goes deeper than the money in your purse. Can you afford to wear the outfit regularly without fear that you’ll ruin it? Can you afford to get it repaired if you do? Sometimes we treat ourselves to clothes that we never end up wearing, because we’re afraid of wasting that money. But clothes are made to be worn, so find a comfortable price range and stick to it.

Do I have a place to wear it?

A big factor in why a lot of our garments lay unworn, is because we buy them for an occasion that may never come. I see many formal dresses that I feel are perfect for weddings and dinner parties, but I tell myself to hold back until I actually have the event to attend.

Does it fit a purpose, and fill a gap in my wardrobe?
Only going to the store when you need something will save you a lot of time and money. Pinpointing what you need and why you need it, will help you avoid repetitive buying. Hold the item you’re interested in and ask yourself; what purpose will this item fulfill? Where will I wear it? Will I wear it often? Is it something I don’t already own? Is there a deeper reason to purchasing it than ‘I just want it’?

Can I wear it with at least 3 other things in my wardrobe?

Before you buy an item, think about what you have at home to pair with it. Imagine what the garment will look like with 2-3 other pieces. Does the top fit with your favorite skirt? Can you wear that jacket with your favorite trousers or jeans? If the item can’t be paired with at least 2-3 items, you may want to leave it behind.

Do I really want this item, or is it just part of a tempting deal?

There may be a correlation between impulse sale buying and the clothes you don’t wear. How often do you buy clothes that are part of a buy-one-get-one-free deal? That free item...do you wear it often? Deals often trick us into thinking we are saving money, but if you weren’t planning on buying the item anyway, you’re only spending more money, and giving up more space in your closet.

Brand Name.

It can be easy to be drawn to an item because it’s a name brand. The newest “It” bag or The must have designer shoes of the season are so beautiful and on everyone’s wish list. Does it mean we have to have them or are you drawn to them because of the logo? Imagine taking the name/logo off the item. Would it still be as appealing?

Want My Pocket Stylist Tool?

Fashionably yours,

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